Prince Harry's sour row with the Royal Family has cast a shadow over the Invictus Games with some veterans questioning whether the rift is costing them support from members of his family.
Some British athletes have been left frustrated as they believe their work is not being recognised by royal figures who support others competing in international sporting events.
The Duke's presence is said to be appreciated but some believe that other supportive voices are missing.
One official in the UK team said they felt there could be more support back home, despite the Games getting bigger every year.
The Duke's presence is said to be appreciated but some believe that other supportive voices are missing
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“The athletes find it bizarre but don’t want to get caught up in the royal crossfire," an insider told The Telegraph.
Over recent days, the Prince and Princess of Wales took part in Mike Tindall’s podcast, The Good, the Bad and the Rugby, alongside the Princess Royal and attended separate Rugby World Cup matches in France.
Prince William and Kate were previously involved with the early success of the Invictus Games with their Royal Foundation which provided funding for the event.
A courtier was quoted at the time saying: “Prince William and Catherine always supported Harry’s efforts to establish Invictus. They are delighted that it has been a success.”
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In 2014, then Prince Charles, the Duchess of Cornwall and Prince William joined Prince Harry at the opening ceremony in London.
A UK media strategist said that the palace approach towards the Sussexes could be described as “ignore and distract”.
He said: “It’s ironic Buckingham Palace has had more to say about the Highland Games than the Invictus Games, despite the honorary military roles they hold.
“In doing so, the palace ends up looking mean-spirited and petty. The ill will against Harry should not be held against the Invictus competitors.”
In 2014, then Prince Charles, the Duchess of Cornwall and Prince William joined Prince Harry at the opening ceremony in London
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The Royal family has not publicly commented on the event for a number of years.
However, Ben McBean, a double amputee who inspired the Duke to launch the event, said they should have put their rift to one side.
He said he saw “both sides” of the argument between the brothers but added: “Saying that, they should have just given the lads a shout-out.
"It’s like when we went to Afghanistan, no one supported the war, but they supported the troops. It’s the same thing.”
